I spent several weeks this past summer exploring the rugged coastlines and deep valleys of a truly stunning place. Have you ever dreamed of taking your best friend on a grand adventure? I am talking about the four-legged kind.
Dog Friendly Norway is a reality that every pet owner should experience at least once in their life. Though the rules are strict, the rewards of seeing your pup run through Arctic snow or lounge on a fjord cruise are worth every bit of work.
First of all, I must tell you that this country is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Most activities here happen in nature anyway. Therefore, it is very easy to take your dog along for the ride. You can scale massive mountains or stroll through historic colorful streets.
Exploring Norway with a dog requires a lot of preparation. However, I have gathered every detail you need to make your dog friendly holidays norway a success.
The Big Rules for Entry
Before you book any tickets, you must understand the health laws. Norway is not part of the European Union, so the entry rules are a bit different. Officials at the border are friendly. Similarly, they are very strict about the fine details.
Your dog must have an ISO 11784/85 microchip. You must ensure the vet implants the chip before the rabies shot happens. This sequence is vital for your paperwork to stay valid. Additionally, you need a valid rabies vaccination.
The dog must be at least 12 weeks old for the first shot. You must wait 21 days after the primary jab before you cross the border. Later, you must ensure your boosters stay current.
Plus, you cannot forget the fox tapeworm treatment. This is a big one. Every dog must receive treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis. A vet must give this medicine between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive at the border.
The vet then records this in the EU Pet Passport or the health certificate. Though there are exceptions for dogs from Finland, Ireland, or Malta, most of us must do this step.
I saw what happens when people ignore these rules. It is not pretty. You could face a fine of at least 7,000 NOK. On top of that, your dog might be quarantined or sent back home at your expense. In very serious cases, officials might even destroy the animal. Therefore, you must keep your paperwork spotless.
How to Get There: The Sea and the Road
You have a few ways to reach this Nordic land. I prefer the dog friendly ferry to norway. It is much more comfortable than a plane for a big dog.
If you drive from Denmark, the FSTR – Fjord Line is a great choice. I took the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand. The trip only takes a bit more than two hours. You can choose to leave your dog in the car. However, I do not recommend this in the summer because the car deck gets very hot. Additionally, the car deck stays locked during the entire crossing. You will not be able to visit your pup.
Gradually, I found a better way. You can bring your dog to the aft deck or the salon by the aft deck. I saw about 25 dogs on my last ride! You must book your dog as a “Pet in car” for a fee of about 120 NOK each way. Similarly, some cruise lines like Go Nordic require you to book a pet-friendly cabin. These cabins have a limit of two pets. You must pay an extra fee of 425 DKK per pet per way.
Later, I decided to try the long road trip from London to the Lofoten Islands. This is a massive 5,000-mile journey. You will cross many borders. You must show your pet passport at the red channel in customs. Proactively present your documents even if the station looks quiet.
Moving Around Inside the Country
Once you arrive, you must decide how to travel. I highly recommend a car or a campervan. Many places are far from towns. Therefore, they are hard to reach by bus. The roads are very narrow and curvy. My dog found it hard to sleep while I drove through the tunnels. Plus, you will often need to drive onto small local ferries to cross fjords. These rides usually last only 5 to 10 minutes.
However, the train system is surprisingly good for a dog friendly norway experience. The company called Vy allows dogs on most routes. If your dog is small with a shoulder height under 40 cm, it rides for free! Larger dogs must have a ticket that costs 50 percent of a standard adult fare.
You must follow some specific rules on the train. Dogs cannot sit on the seats. They must stay on the floor. I suggest you bring a non-slip blanket because the floors are quite slippery. Additionally, pets are not allowed in the Plus or sleeping compartments. They also cannot go into the onboard café or family-friendly zones. On the Bergen Line, there is a limited number of pet spaces. You should book a seat in the designated area well in advance.
In cities like Oslo, public transport is even easier. The company Ruter lets dogs ride for free. You just keep them on a leash and away from the seats.
Finding a Place to Sleep
I was worried about finding dog friendly accommodation norway, but I was wrong to fret. You have so many options!
- Pet Friendly Hotels: Most major chains like Scandic, Thon, and Nordic Choice officially accept pets. Scandic is one of the best. They charge a fixed fee of 250 NOK per room for the entire stay. They even gave me a bowl and some treats! Thon Hotels charges 400 NOK. They often have a “Dog Bar” with water in the lobby.
The most luxurious choice in Oslo is a hotel called The Thief. They offer true luxury for a “Very Important Dog.” They provide a VID sign for the door. Plus, you get a special dog menu, a bed, and toys. However, you must never leave your pet unattended in a room for more than two hours. If you do, you might face a fine of 1,000 NOK.
- Dog Friendly Cabins: If you want to live like a local, you must try dog friendly cabins norway. There is a group called the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT). They have over 500 cabins across the country. About 333 of these cabins allow dogs to stay overnight.
I stayed in a “dog room.” This is a separate heated room where both the dog and the owner sleep together. Some cabins only have cages in unheated outbuildings. You must check the website called UT.no to see the rules for each cabin. Always bring your own dog food because the cabins do not sell it. Also, clean up every single hair before you leave!
- Wild Camping and Allemannsretten: Norway has a special law called Allemannsretten. This is “everyone’s right” to nature. You can pitch a tent on uncultivated land for up to two nights. You must stay at least 150 meters away from houses or cabins. During the summer, you must keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife. I loved camping in the Lofoten Islands. Almost every campsite there is right by the sea.
Where to Eat with Your Pup
Dining out can be tricky. Historically, most restaurants did not allow dogs inside. However, more and more places in Oslo and Bergen are opening their doors.
In Oslo, you should visit a food market called Mathallen. My dog sat with me at the outdoor tables there. If you want something unique, go to BrewDog in the Grünerløkka area. They have a dog menu with Dog Burgers and even Dog Beer! Another great spot is KAFETERIA AUGUST for quality coffee.
Gradually, I found some great dog friendly restaurants norway in other cities too. In Bergen, check out Løvetann Café & Bistro. In Trondheim, Cafe Løkka has a “dog bar” with fresh water. If you are in Stavanger, Kokko kaffebar is a lovely spot.
Just remember one thing. If an employee or another guest is allergic, the staff can ask you to leave. This rule applies even if the restaurant is normally pet-friendly. I usually made my own meals from supermarket supplies to save money. Groceries are expensive, but the smoked salmon and fish burgers are reasonable and delicious!
Epic Sightseeing and Hiking
Dog Friendly Norway is all about the views. I have a list of must-do activities for you.
- Fjord Cruises: You cannot visit this country without a dog friendly norway cruise. If you do the “Norway in a Nutshell” tour, dogs are allowed! I took the express boat on Sognefjord. It is the largest fjord and truly spectacular. You just need to tell the company when you book. You will pay a small fee on the boat.
- The Lofoten Islands: If you have time, you must drive to the wild north. Each island is connected by bridges. I took a ferry from Moskenes to Bodø to save time. It takes 3 hours instead of an 11-hour drive. My dog loved swimming in the crystal-clear water at the beaches there.
- Famous Hikes: Hiking is a national sport here. You must follow the leash law. Between April 1 and August 20, dogs must stay on a lead. This law protects livestock and local birds.
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): This is a 6km hike that takes about 4 hours. The view from the top is 604 meters above the sea. My dog handled it well.
- Trolltunga: This hike is very famous but very hard. It is 28km long. Only take fit, large dogs on this one. I saw a fit Samoyed do it, but he was exhausted.
- Torghatten: This is an easy 20-minute walk to a hole in a mountain. It is a great evening trip.
- The Geiranger Skywalk: Drive up to Dalsnibba for an elevation of 1,500 meters. There were no restrictions on my dog joining me at the skywalk. The view of Geirangerfjord from there is the best I saw in the whole country.
Health and Safety Tips
The nature is beautiful, but it can be dangerous. You must be aware of ticks. They are becoming more common in the woods. Ticks can carry diseases like Lyme borreliosis and anaplasmosis. I found three ticks on my dog’s face during one walk!
Carry a tick removal stick everywhere. Examine your dog’s fur after every single walk. Check warm areas like the ears and between the toes. You can buy tick repellent on prescription at a local pharmacy. Additionally, you can get a preventive vaccine against Lyme disease for your dog.
If your pet gets sick, you must know that veterinarian clinics are private and very expensive. A simple 15-minute consultation costs about 700 NOK. Emergency surgery can cost between 20,000 and 50,000 NOK. Most Norwegians have insurance that covers 80 percent of these costs. I strongly recommend you have travel insurance for your pet before you leave home.
Practical Survival Guide
Finally, I have a few extra tips for your journey.
- Bring your own food: Dog food is very expensive in Norway. I brought all the food I needed for the trip from home to save money.
- The Midnight Sun: In the north during summer, the sun does not set. I thought this would confuse my dog. However, he slept just fine every night.
- Dog Parks: If you are in Oslo, visit Vigelandsparken. In the northwestern corner, there is a large dog park called a “hundejordet.” It is a great place for your pup to run off-leash and meet friends.
- Pick up poop: You must always clean up after your dog. There is a fine of 600 NOK for littering in national parks.
Norway is a land of magic and rules. If you follow the laws and prepare well, you will have the trip of a lifetime. The people are friendly. The air is fresh. The mountains are calling.
Imagine your dog standing on a high cliff with the wind in his fur. That is the feeling of freedom. It is like a wolf returning to the wild, but with a cozy hotel room waiting at the end of the day.
Are you ready to pack your bags? Your best friend is waiting by the door. Go explore the wonders of the north together!
FAQ
Are dogs allowed on trains in Norway?
Yes, animals like dogs and cats are permitted on Vy trains provided dogs remain on a leash. Small pets with a shoulder height under 40 cm travel for free, while larger dogs typically require a ticket at 50% of the standard adult fare. Pets are generally not allowed in sleeping compartments, Plus carriages, or family-friendly zones.
Is Norwegian pet friendly?
Yes, the airline Norwegian allows pets to travel. Small pets up to 8 kg can travel in the cabin, while larger animals are transported in the luggage compartment.
Is Bergen, Norway dog friendly?
Bergen is considered a dog-friendly destination where you can walk through the historic Bryggen district or enjoy outdoor seating at various cafes. The city offers several dedicated dog parks, such as those at Liavatnet and Tennebekk, and many hotels specifically cater to pet owners.
How dog friendly is Oslo?
Oslo is highly accommodating, with public transport being free for dogs and a growing number of cafes and bars allowing pets indoors. The city features prominent outdoor spaces like Vigeland Park, which includes a specific off-leash area known as a “hundejordet”.
Can I travel to Norway with my dog?
Yes, traveling to Norway with a dog is doable if you meet strict health requirements, including ISO microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and tapeworm treatments. You must proactively present your pet and documentation at the “red channel” when crossing the border.
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Norway?
Dogs can visit and swim at many Norwegian beaches, particularly in scenic areas like the Lofoten Islands. However, you must adhere to national leash laws between April 1 and August 20 to protect local wildlife.
Concluding Words
Norway is a spectacular destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures with their dogs. While the country has strict entry requirements regarding vaccinations and parasite treatments, its vast natural landscapes, inclusive public transport, and pet-friendly accommodation options make it a rewarding choice for a “fur-cation”. By following local leash laws and planning for high costs in urban areas, you and your pet can enjoy a memorable journey through fjords, mountains, and historic cities.
